Samsun beaches: 800kg of washed-up sacks identified as guar gum

Authorities in Samsun, Turkey, have identified the substance found in approximately 800 kilograms of sacks that washed ashore in the Atakum and Çarşamba districts on August 24 and 25. Following the discovery of the unknown material at various beaches, including İncesu Beach and Yeşilyurt AVM coast, local AFAD teams conducted chemical and radioactivity measurements.

Analysis performed by the chemical engineering departments of Dokuz Eylül University and Ondokuz Mayıs University confirmed that the substance is guar gum. Guar gum is a natural, water-soluble fiber derived from guar bean seeds, commonly used in the food and cosmetic industries.

Testing by the Samsun Provincial Directorate of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change confirmed that the material contained no hazardous chemical or radioactive elements. The sacks were moved to a secure area to prevent leaks, and a licensed company has been contracted to dispose of the material in accordance with Environmental Law No. 2872.